DSWD-9, partner agencies launch YDS in ZamPen

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Youth Development Sessions (YDS) program of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-9 was launched here recently at the Zamboanga City National High School (ZCNHS)-main campus in collaboration with the National Youth Commission (NYC) and the Department of Education (DepEd).

More than 800 high school students, who are beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) underwent various sessions of the YDS.

YDS is a parallel intervention of DSWD to the Family Development Sessions (FDS) targeted for high school student-beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilya.

DSWD-9 Regional Director Zenaida Arevalo said the program is a modular session that aims to motivate the adolescents in attending and finishing their education.

“The YDS shall help the adolescents be equipped with appropriate knowledge, attitude, and skills to developmental challenges, see available opportunities, and overcome possible risks to aid them in achieving optimal and holistic development,” she explained.

The intended topics for the YDS include adolescent dynamics, sexuality, career, life, and skills, among others. According to Arevalo, these topics are envisioned to address the challenges faced by Filipino adolescents such as teen pregnancy, reproductive health, decision-making, peer-pressure, dangerous drugs, pornography and other issues.

Director Arevalo said the YDS will be implemented nationwide in all Pantawid Pamilya areas, to all high school beneficiaries monitored by the program.

After the launching, the YDS will be rolled out with NYC until January 2016. It will be conducted in a school-based setting during weekdays within class hours.

Mr. Jesus Solon, secondary school principal of ZCNHS-main expressed his gratitude to DSWD-9 and the rest of the partner agencies for choosing the school as the venue for the launch. “I am optimistic that the YDS program will provide better motivation for the students to finish their studies and reach their goals,” he said.

The YDS regional launching is anchored on the theme, “Pangarap ko, kaya ko!”

Tobacco Control Network calls for strict compliance of RA9211

By Jocelyn P Alvarez

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Despite health awareness on the dire consequences of tobacco/cigarette smoking, still, many men and women, young and old alike, can’t resist but puff the addictive stuff.

As a matter of fact, 17.3 million Filipino adults age 15 years and older are current tobacco smokers according to the results of the 2009 Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Smoking damages just about every organ of the body and trail blaze to the general deterioration of health of the smoker.  It is associated with the big C- cancer;respiratory disease,cardiovascular disease and its effects are widespread that include damage to skin, eyes and mouth.

There is no mantra that enumerates “responsible smoking”, because in the first place, smoking is never responsible.If it were, one would not start smoking. In one way or the other, smoking is somewhatbeing unfair to your health and to the second hand smokers.

Health studies said exposure to secondhand smoke is believed to cause lung cancer or heart disease deaths of about 49,000 non-smokers every year. Nonsmokers who are exposed tosecondhand smoke have a 25 to 30 percent increase in their heart disease risk and a 20 to 30 percent increase in their lung cancer risk.

Children whose parents or caregivers smoke have an increased risk of asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, coughing, wheezing, and ear infections. Babies of smokers have a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS.

It’s time to put the cigarette butt out!

RTCN  reiterates call for RA9211 implementation

The Regional Tobacco Control Network (RTCN) headed by the Department of Heath reiterated its call for the observance and strict implementation of RA9211 or the "Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003," during its meeting held October 15 in one of the local hotels here.

“It’s long overdue that each of us do our own share of responsibility,” said Teresita De La Cruz of DOH 9.

RA 9211 isthe law that regulates the packaging, use, sale, distribution and advertisement of tobacco products. RA 9211 protects the people from hazardous tobacco smoke, promotes the right of the people to health and instills health consciousness.

De La Cruz said RA 9211 assigns places where smoking is absolutely banned or prohibited. “When you say absolutely prohibited, meaning the place cannot have designated smoking areas or DSAs,” she explained.

Places included in the smoking ban

Places or areas included in the smoking ban include:a. centers of youth activity such as playschools, preparatory schools, elementary schools, colleges and universities, youth hostels, and recreational facilities for persons under 18 years old.

Elevators and stairwells are also areas included in the ban; gas stations and storage areas for flammable liquids, gas explosives or combustible materials; within the building and premises of: public and private hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, optical clinics, health centers, nursing homes, dispensaries, laboratories; public conveyance like jeepneys, buses , taxis and tricycles and food preparation areas .

“Government offices included in the smoking ban under RA 9211 are Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Education (DepEd) and other offices that offer social services,” De La Cruz enumerated

The sale or distribution of tobacco products is prohibited within 100 meters from any point of perimeter of the school, playground or any other facility frequented by minors, that is about the length of 3 basketball courts.

DTI spearheads13thConsumer Welfare Month celebration

By Rhea Grace A. La Plana

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – Anchored on the theme “Consumer Protection in the ASEAN Economic Community,” the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the National Consumers Affairs Council (NCAC) spearheaded the Consumer Welfare Month (CWM) celebration here.

As part of the month-long activities, DTI and NCAC in coordination with DepEd organized and conducted a Quiz Bee on October 16 at Ipil Central Elementary School Conference Hall.

Grade VI pupils from Ipil SPED, Ipil Central Elementary School, Ipil Heights Elementary School, Pangi Elementary School, Sanito Elementary School and Upper Pangi Elementary School participated in the Quiz Bee.

The Quiz Bee was an appropriate undertaking by which pupils wereessentially taught this earlyregarding product quality and consumer protection.

Ms. CyraTaguinod of Ipil SPED won the 1^st place; Aiza Kate Hofer, Ipil Heights ES – 2^nd place; and Kisha D. Obedencio of Pangi Elementary School bagged the 3^rd place of the Quiz Bee.

DTI Provincial Director Engr. Al-Zamir I. Lipaereiterated their commitment in strengthening the department’s services and programs to address to address the various concerns of consumers in terms of safety and protection.

Encouraging dialogue and cooperation among consumers, business and government sectors in advancing and protecting the interests of consumers are initial steps for an active and conscious society.

DOH-9 steps up drive vs. filariasis, schistosomiasis

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – To eliminate the so-called neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Zamboanga Peninsula, a team from the Department of Health (DOH)-9 has conducted a media forum on filariasis, schistosomiasis, capillariasis including intestinal worms at the Guillermo Hotel here recently.

In her message, Dr. Agnes Fernando, DOH-Zamboanga del Sur chief, emphasized the important role played by the press in giving the communities correct information on these tropical diseases that are treatable.

Fernando disclosed that there are cases of filariasis recorded in Zamboanga del Sur particularly in the municipalities of Bayog, Kumalarang and Guipos.

Filariasis, which is a parasitic diseases caused by an infection with roundworm of the Filarioidea type, is spread by blood feeding black flies and mosquitoes. It results in the thickening of the skin and underlying tissues.

She also reported that schistosomiasis in Zamboanga del Sur has not yet been fully eliminated. “The prevalence of schistosomiasis in the province is high,” she said.

Schistosomiasis is caused by a parasitic blood fluke that infects mammals including humans through skin penetration when in contact with fresh water contminated with larval forms (cercariae) known as schistosomes.

Moreover, the different types of intestinal worms/parasites were also discussed in the same forum with emphasis on the deworming program pursued by the government for school age children.

Intestinal parasites may cause anemia, stunted growth and even death among children if not treated by giving an anthelmintic drug to humans. 

1FAB accomplishments hailed

By Gideon C. Corgue 

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur – The Army Artillery Regiment (AAR), Philippine Army (PA) recently lauded the 1^st Field Artillery Battalion (1FAB) for the remarkable accomplishments rendered to the stakeholders.

In his message, Col. Agane C. Adriatico, AAR deputy regiment commander, said during the 1FAB’s 29^th founding anniversary on Wednesday at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an here that the 1^st FAB had accomplished so much during the past years.

Adriatico was impressed with the high standard of dedication that the 1FAB troopers have shown particularly in providing the needed artillery fire support to the different units of the Philippine Army’s 1^st Infantry (Tabak) Division.

Adriatico also appreciated the disaster rescue and relief operations conducted by the 1FAB troopers during the typhoons in the different parts of Zamboanga Peninsula and Mindanao.

“We are happy to know that you have also conducted 125 various civil –military operations, such as: medical and dental civic action program (MEDCAP), blood donations, Brigada Eskwela, tree planting activities and clean up drive and static display of artillery weapons to promote the artillery’s capability,” Adriatico said.

Adriatico encouraged the troopers to live everyday the work that they give for the success of their mission. “It is the contribution of all our efforts that makes life of a soldier and public servant meaningful.”

Meanwhile, 1FAB commanding officer Lt. Col. Sonny M. Sales said the troops are now pursuing the Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) or the “Bayanihan” campaign by providing social services to the people.

Sales also said the “1FAB is always ready to meet the challenges at all cost to support peace together with the different army units in the area and civilian sector to pave way for development in this part of the region.”

Sales said the “Beat ‘Em” team is always focused, ready and capable of performing its mission to support the 1^st Infantry Division mission to promote peace and order in the area and advocate development.

“Bilang inyong pinuno lubos kong ipagmamalaki ang tagumpay na samasama natin nakamit at bukod sa lahat nais ko ring bigyang diin ang katapatan ng ipinamalas ng bawat isa na naaayon sa ating saligang-batas,” Sales said.

(As your leader, I am very proud of the victory that we collectively achieved and above all, I want to respect the rights enjoyed by everyone as stipulated in our Constitution.)

Certain individuals who have contributed to the successful implementation of the “Bayanihan” program and the troopers who have made remarkable accomplishments for the battalion were given plaques of recognition and medals of valor, respectively.

12 Filipino women die of cervical cancer daily, says DOH

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – “Statistics show that 12 Filipino women die every day because of cervical cancer,” Dr. Guadalupe T. Ramiso reported on Tuesday, in a stakeholders meeting on Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) held at Mardale Hotel here.

Dr. Ramiso further disclosed that 6,000 Filipino women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually and 4,395 of them die from the disease. In a recent survey, this disease ranks second as the most frequent cancer affecting women 15-44 years old.Breast cancer ranks first.

“Practically all cervical cancers are caused by some type of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection,” she said.

The United States Centers for Diseases Control (US CDC) reports that  women will get at least one HPV infection in their lifetime and 75 percent of  invasive cervical cancers are attributed to the so-called HPVs 16 or 18 types that accounts for more than 10 percent of cervical cancers worldwide.

Asked who may be affected by cervical cancer, Ramiso said this ailment affects women in their 40s-50s and rarely in women under 30 years of age.

On the other hand, the Young Adult Fertility and  Sexuality Survey of 2013 reveals  that 1 of 3 Filipino youth engage in premarital sex and majority are males than females. Females as young as 15 years old have begun childbearing, the survey further showed.

Since cervical cancer remains a public health concern that threatens the welfare and well-being of women and the population as well,the Department of Health (DOH) will administer the conduct of HPV vaccination this month of October until November, 2015, to all grade 4 pupils (girls only) aged 9-10 years old in all priority provinces nationwide which include Zamboanga del Sur in Region 9.

HPV vaccination is most effective when given during childhood or adolescence or before sexual debut, when HPV infection is nil or at its lowest. This is also ideal because the immune system is at its strongest and, therefore, will mount a robust response tothe vaccine.

HPV vaccine will be administered incity/municipal health centers and will be given in two doses.The second dose will be given six months after the first dose.

Tawi-Tawi COMNET elects new set of officers

By Felipo David G. Malcampo

BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi – The Tawi-Tawi Communicators’ Network, an inter-organization composed of government and non-government information officers based in the province has elected its new set of officers for 2015-2016.

The following officers were elected: President – Ma. Velma Gaticales (LGU-Bongao), Vice President – Diana Amilasan (Radyo Natin), Secretary – Sali Jamasali (Radyo ng Bayan), Auditor – Lydia Arsad (National Food Authority), Business Managers – Alkhaizer Ibrahim (Mahardika Institute of Technology), Irum Muallil (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources), and Board of Directors – Sitti Rahma Gutierrez (Tawi-Tawi Electric Cooperative), Bahaya Rayas (Department of Agriculture), Felimon Romero (Mindanao State University), Rosendo Reyes (Drivers’ Association), Gamar Aukasa (DXGD), Nasher Tahang (Provincial PIO), Sr. Ritaflor Servidad (Tawi-Tawi Family Life Foundation), Jun Dail (Smart Radio Club) and Lourdes Lalaine Marabillo (Department of Trade and Industry).

During the meeting held recently at the Sangguniang Bayan Hall, the COMNET discussed possible project tie-ups, particularly with the NFA’s “I am a Food Guardian Campaign.”

The officers took their oath before  Bongao Mayor Jasper Que.

The Tawi-Tawi COMNET is tapped by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to serve as sources of essential information from government and other service providers to the public in the province. It seeks to provide updates particularly on government programs, as well as important announcements to the people. 

LGU Kabasalan supports 100 scholars

By Rhea Grace A. La Plana

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – The local government unit (LGU) of Kabasalan has provided assistance to 100“Iskolar ng Kabasalan”  from Kabasalan National High School (KNHS).

Dr. Ma. Coleen L. Emoricha, KNHS principal said the scholarship program given to poor but deserving students is a great help to parents who have difficulty in sending their children to school.

The educational assistance amounting to P75,000.00was granted to the scholars in a simple ceremony recently whichwas attended by Kabasalan town Mayor George C. Cainglet and Sangguniang Bayan Education Committee Chair, Ms. Elma Bragado.

In her speech, Ms. Bragado warned the students against having a romantic affair this early, encouraged them to finish their studies and dream of bigger things in life.

Each scholar will receive the amount of P750.00 to pay for DepEd approved fees such as: school paper, student government fees, PTA contributions and other school expenses.

Prior to the scholarship grant, the scholars were interviewed and screened, and their life stories were documented by their respective advisers.

They were very grateful for the assistance received and motivated to strive harder in their studies. The scholars also expressed their heartfelt thanks to local officials for the concern and for putting prime value on education.

Mayor Cainglet said that he has many plans for KNHS and cited two projects underway which are: covered court for the school and additional scholars for the next schoolyear.

According to KNHS guidance counselor, Mrs. Melinda Joy M. Javier, such scholarship program is the mainstream of BUILD4KNHS, Inc., an NGO which stands for “Building Initiatives to Lower Drop-out For KNHS.”

Moreover, Mrs. Javier said that the school-owned NGO has four main purposes: to lower drop-outs, improve students’ school performance, synergize community and school activities and help students to help themselves.

Crime volume in ZamPen dips

By Franklin P. Gumapon

DIPOLOG CITY – A decrease in crime volume has been noted in Zamboanga Peninsula, according to the Police Regional Office (PRO)-9.

In a special meeting held here recently by the members of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-9, PSSupt. Jose Chiquito M. Malayo of PRO-9 reported that the crime volume in the region for January to September 2015 had accounted for 12,995 from 15,591 of the same period last year.

Malayo also disclosed that the crime solution efficiency (CSE) in the region had increased to 20.19 percent and the crime clearance efficiency (CCE) to 21.87 percent.

CSE refers to the crimes solved with the suspects arrested while CCE means the suspects have been identified but not arrested.

Moreover, Malayo also reported that four bombing incidents happened in the region from January to September this year and all these occurred in Zamboanga City.

Zamboanga del Norte Governor Roberto Y. Uy, RPOC-9 chair, called for a special meeting following the kidnapping of an Italian national, Rolando del Torchio, in Dipolog City last Oct. 7.

The victim, who runs a pizza parlor, was forcibly taken by the suspects who allegedly belong to the kidnap-for-ransom group operating in the area.

Hot pursuit operations against the suspects to rescue the victim are still going on. 

Mayor Uy appeals for news blackout on del Torchio abduction

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - The family of the victim who was abducted last October 7, 2015 here sought the help of the city government for the local media to refrain from broadcasting or publishing further details on the abduction issue.

In a press conference held at the mayor’s conference room on Monday, Mayor Evelyn T. Uy issued an official statement appealing to the local media for a news blackout on the abduction of former Italian priest Rolando del Torchio.

Mayor Uy said the immediate family requested news blackout on the kidnapping to give full leverage to the hot pursuit operation launched by the police. Unconfirmed reporting might potentially jeopardize the operation and endanger the life of the victim.

According to Atty. Antonio, the family’s legal counsel, they have still to receive communication from the group who is holding the victim. She also appealed to the members of the media for cooperation and be responsible in their reporting.

He assured that any major development on the abduction will be immediately relayed to the media for dissemination.

The Italian businessman was abducted on October 7 by 11 by armed men inside his business establishment at the Andres Bonifacio College Complex, Dipolog City and  taken  aboard a silver-metallic L-300 van with place no. TMY-490.

The get-away vehicle was recovered by police authorities at Purok Bularan, Miputak, Dipolog City.

DOLE Sibugay conducts SRS provincial validation and assessment

By Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – With the unemployment and underemployment problems that beset our country, the national government through the Department of Labor and Employment embarked on the establishment of a National Skills Registry System (SRS).

The SRS is a continuing nationwide manpower skills registration to capture most, if not all the manpower supply available in every local government unit (LGU) for potential employment locally and abroad.

It also facilitates employability and contributes to the overall development and improvement of the quality of the Philippine labor force to be more globally competitive.

DOLE is committed to organize, develop and maximize utilization of the country’s manpower resources through the SRS.

To further improve the SRS project, the National Skills Registry System provincial validation and assessment exercises attended by Public Employment Service Office (PESO) managers was recently held at Tamayo Beach Resort in Malintuboan, Labason, Zamboanga del Norte.

Mr. Elamsalih E. Ungad,  Supervising LEO and OIC  of DOLE Sibugay explained to the  PESO managers the importance of NSRS in terms of employment facilitation which is the core function of the PESO.

“The database can help the LGU, potential employers and other stakeholders to locate the skills they want or upgrade their skills through community-based training, minimizing the job mismatch problem and helping the community alleviate theireconomic status. This will also encourage investors to put up business activities due to realistic summary of skills,” the labor chief quoted.

The program capitalizes on the partnership of DOLE and LGU in employment facilitation through the PESO to deliver quality employment services to its constituents. Already on its fifth wave of implementation, the SRS project started in 2010.

Aside from the validation and assessment exercises, other relevant topics were also discussed such as: the K-12 Orientation presented by Dr. Monalisa M. Babiera putting emphasis on the important role of Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) managers in career counseling for senior high school and Stress Management: Reducing its Intensity through Managing Your Reaction, expounded  by Ms. Mary Sanedna A. Ambi, a registered guidance counselor.

Ungad said ongoing programs include DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program funded through Bottom-up Budgeting (DILEEP-BUB), the Government Internship Program (GIP), Labor Law Compliance System (LLCS) and  Single Entry Approach (SEnA), a 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation services for labor and management.

Zambo celebrates solemn, peaceful Fiesta Pilar

By Dominic I. Sanchez

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Mayor Beng Climaco-Salazar yesterday (October 12) thanked the police, military, their force multipliers and residents  for helping ensure a safe Fiesta Pilar celebration, since October 1 until yesterday’s grand procession.

Thousands of residents from all walks of life joined in the Grand Procession in honor of Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar, the city’s matron, which began at around 3 in the afternoon at the Metropolitan Cathedral, ending at around 5, with a mass celebrated by Archbishop Romulo dela Cruz at the Fort Pilar.

Fort Pilar itself was packed with devotees including Mayor Climaco-Salazar, Congressman Celso Lobregat and other local officials. Residents have been coming in throngs to Fort Pilar since the start of the 9-day Novena in honor of the Lady.

Ñora Carmelita Delos Reyes, a 72-year-old devotee who has been a La Virgen devotee all her life said that she felt more comfortable seeing police, military and Red Cross volunteers all around Fort Pilar. “Mas ta sinti iyo comfortable pati hinde na iyo ta tiene miedo na ay tiene maga mal hente na pikura ase malo el celebrasyon,” (I feel comfortable and I am not anymore afraid that there could be any person to do their evil plans to disrupt the celebrations), said Ñora Carmelita.

Security in the procession route as well as in Fort Pilar itself was very tight. Police and military were highly visible, and adding to them were force multipliers including criminology students from local universities.

Cellular signal was observed to have been cut off in the procession areas as part of the security measures.

Earlier, Mayor Climaco-Salazar issued executive orders with regards to security measures in Fiesta Hermosa activity areas. This included the banning of caps, backpacks, and the wearing of hoods in the premises. Devotees were also subjected to inspection prior to entering the Fort Pilar shrine.

The mayor expressed her gratitude for all who participated and cooperated with the authorities in the strict implementation of the security procedures.

Residents such as Ñora Carmelita are more grateful for the added security, since it ensured the safety of all devotees. On the other hand, Red Cross volunteers were on standby and took care of any person who needed immediate medical attention. 

DOH conducts media forum

By Grace Montallana

DIPOLOG CITY - “We are appealing to the media people to support our program,” Ms. Virgie Galaretta, health education promotions officer of the Department of Health (DOH)-9 told the press in a forum held Friday at the Top Plaza Hotel here.

Galaretta also said the forum was conducted to give the media practitioners accurate information about the programs pursued by the DOH especially on its deworming and immunization activities.

The investigation result on the last mass deworming activity in schools was also presented in the forum.

As reported, several students complained of stomach pains and difficulty in breathing after taking the deworming tablets. This, Galaretta said, affected the School-based Immunization Program (SIP) for grades 1-7 students that ensued days after the deworming activity.

Galaretta reported that a decrease in the number of students immunized during the conduct of immunization of Measles Containing Vaccines (MCV) and Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) for Grade 1 and Measles Rebulla (MR) and Td for Grade 7 was observed.

The DOH is now tapping the media to help publicize its immunization program to encourage the students and the parents actively participate in the October 16, 2015 immunization program.

Galaretta assured the students that the medicines to be given to them are safe.

Provincial Sanitary Inspector Restie Kyamko, on the other hand, underscored the importance of cleanliness in the surroundings and homes to prevent dengue and other diseases caused by mosquito bites like filariasis, which would result in the enlargement of extremities and lymph nodes especially in end-stage cases. This disease can only be determined 5 to 10 years after a person got infected.

Persons suffering from filariasis can avail of free operations, medicines and laboratory, Health Education Promotions Officer Wilma R. Bulahan of the Provincial Health Office said.

ZAMPEX 2015 caps livelihood techno demo

By Emmanuel D. Taghoy

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Aside from showcasing the best and finest products of Zamboanga Peninsula, the four-day Zamboanga Peninsula Trade Exposition (ZAMPEX) 2015 also featured series of free livelihood technology demonstration for existing micro, small and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) and those interested to venture into business.

The techno demo, which is a collaborative effort of the SME Core Group and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-9, as its lead agency, hopes to encourage more people become entrepreneurs and help spur economic activity and generate employment in Zamboanga Peninsula region.

There are a total of eight demonstrations mainly on fruit, vegetable, and fish processing conducted by the different government agencies.

The Department of Agriculture (DA)-9 conducted the first demo on fruit and vegetable processing on October 8. This was followed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-9 with a demonstration on fish product processing like Fishball with Squash, Kikiam and Tempura and chocolate molding in the second day of the event.

The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA)-9 demonstrated Abaca handmade paper making while the Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) conducted Sardines Pinangat (ZAMPENangat) and fish spread making.

With a maximum of 50 persons participating in each session, the free livelihood technology demonstration has benefitted some 400 persons composed students, entrepreneurs and other interested individuals. 

US embassy lauds WEM-RIC for promoting agribusiness

By Gideon C. Corgue 

PAGADIAN CITY – The Women Empowerment Movement-Rural Improvement Club (WEM-RIC) has received an accolade from the Embassy of the United States for promoting agricultural entrepreneurship among disadvantaged women in Zamboanga del Sur.

Speaking on Friday before the WME-RIC municipal chapter presidents at Balay Bisaya in Barangay Dao here, Ms. Carolyn B. Glassman, counselor for public affairs section, US Embassy-Manila, said the “US embassy is honored working with the 42,000 WEM-RIC members across the region in that the organization has great potential in utilizing the skills of its members in agricultural entrepreneurship to improve productivity among them.”

The WEM-RIC project, Glassman added, aims to realize the women’s full potential to help augment their incomes as “it endeavors to open other opportunities in agriculture and rural-micro enterprises training.”

Glassman disclosed that the project got funding assistance from the American people through the US State Department “in the hope that the WEM-RIC would achieve great things in the future.

WEM-RIC received a grant of $200 thousand from the US embassy to help empower the women-farmers and entrepreneurs. The grant was secured in October 2014 and was released in February 2015.

Ms. Junaflor Cerilles, WEM-RIC provincial federated president said “the WEMC-RIC members are happy that the US embassy had granted their request to implement the project which would benefit the women-farmers in the province.

“This project aims to contribute to expanding women’s equal opportunities to access and participate in key decisions over agri-based economic resources and technologies, and to provide knowledge and skills to disadvantaged women and men farmers. It also enables them to understand their roles, as well as the importance of sustainable agricultural practices to the livelihoods, food security and overall health and well-being of the family and community,” Cerilles explained.

A total of 810 disadvantaged farmers (675 women and 135 men) across the 27 municipalities of the province shall be benefit from the project, including 27 women organizations.

Cerilles is optimistic that the project may impact the 40,000 women members through knowledge and experience sharing during their regular meetings and activities.

Two ZamPen coops Gawad Parangal 2015 finalists

By Claro A. Lanipa

PAGADIAN CITY – Two multi-purpose cooperatives from the Zamboanga Peninsula Region made it to the top five finalists of the annual Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Gawad Parangal this year.

CDA Regional Director Ruben Cunanan was proud to announce that the Aurora Integrated Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AIM Coop) of Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur and Siayan Officials and Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative of Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte were nominated as national  finalists in this year’s Gawad Parangal for large coop category and small coop category, respectively.

On the other hand, Mr. Pacenciano Tumarong, AIM Coop manager was also nominated as one of the top five finalists for the coop leader category, Director Cunanan disclosed.

“These finalists have  undergone stringent and strict requirements considering  the hundreds of nominees nationwide but only a few passed the criteria, and we are so happy about this development that we have three finalists from our region,” Cunanan said.

The awarding ceremony of  Gawad Parangal winners will be done on October 23, 2015, during the culmination rites of the  Cooperative Centennial celebration with no less than President Benigno S. Aquino III as guest of honor and speaker.

“The Gawad Parangal is given to  deserving cooperatives in recognition of their valuable contribution to the country’s economy,” Cunanan added.

Meanwhile, he said the first law on cooperatives was enacted last February 5, 1915, creating the Rural Credit Law, an “act regulating the creation and operation of Rural Agricultural Cooperatives Association, and for other purposes.”

This act officially gave birth to a social enterprise which is a model of business based on ethical values and principles whose goal is to provide for the needs and aspirations of their members. 

Nine ZamboNorte studes hurdle DOST scholarship exams

By Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY - Nine(9) students of Zambanga del Norte hurdled the Junior Level Science Scholarship given by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute(DOST-SEI) in the different testing centers throughout the country last July 12, 2015.

Of the 9 local passers,  4were among the 27 examinees who took the examination at Hotel Camila I, Estaka, Dipolog City administered by Mr. Jhanjhan De Vera of DOST-SEI and Ms. Melody Anne Donio of PSTC-ZDN, while therest tried their luck at  other testing centers of the country.

The lucky passers are Frederick Quibong, BS Electronics and Communications Engineering, Andres Bonifacio College (ABC);JunielAmores, BS Electrical Engineering; Joseph Kames Verano, BS Electrical Engineering; and Claire Uttoh, BS Agricultural Engineering, all of Jose Rizal Memorial State University.

Those who took the examinations at other testing centers wereHerlene Mae Cantores-BS Chemistry, University of the Philippines, Iloilo City (UP-Iloilo); Ryan Cuenca-BS Statistics, Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City; Karl Michael Edquilla-BS Chemical Engineering-UP-Dilliman Campus;JumarHamac-BS Computer Engineering, Ateneo de Zamboanga City and Keren Omoso- BS Chemical Engineering, UP Iloilo.

Under the program, the above-mentioned qualifiers, together with their parent or legal guardian, underwent Orientation and signing of Scholarship Agreement at the DOST Provincial Science and Technology Center, Upper Turno, Dipolog City on October 5, 2015.

It maybe recalled that last May, 2015, the DOST-SEI offered JLSS to qualified junior level regular college students enrolled in priority S & T courses who are willing to teach basic education in public or private schools as return of service.

“Nahirang Class” visits 1st Infantry division, 1st Cavalry Squadron

By Gideon C. Corgue

LABANGAN, Zamboanga del Sur – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)future officers made their first visit to the 1^st Cavalry (Tagapanguna) Squadron, Mechanized Infantry Division at its headquarters inCamp Colonel JacoboE. Zobel, Pulacan, Labanganon October 2-6.

The Officers Candidate Course (OCC) “Nahirang Class 45-2015”  composed of 58 soldiers (51 male and 7 female) led by LtCol. Robert Beatisula, assistant commandant of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Camp O’Donnelin Capas, Tarlac visited the unit as part of their educational tour and exposure before their graduation on December 9, this year.

Earlier, the group made their visit to the headquarters of the 1^st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army and 1^st Field Artillery Battalion, respectively prior to their visit to the 1^st Cavalry Squadron.

In an interview, Beatisula said the TRADOC has chosen the unit as one of the places to be visited for them to learn the skills and capabilities of the armor personnel and to obtain a better understanding of the real situation on the ground.

Accordingly, they already had their exposure in the different Philippine Army units, namely: the Special Operations Command and Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) inFort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija;  FirstScout Ranger Regiment, San Miguel, Bulacan; Western Mindanao Command, Zamboanga City; and 104^th Brigade, Basilan City.

Meanwhile, 1^st Cavalry Squadron commanding officer LtCol.Charlemagne F. Batayola, Jr. said the officers demonstrated tactical decision games, squad qualifications skills, conducted static display of weapons and provided them the opportunity to experience riding Simba fighting vehicles. 

“They were also taught how to disassemble and reassemble rifles,” Batayola added.

Batayolasaid the OCC “Nahirang Class 45-2015” also conducted information drive and silent drill exhibition at the Western Mindanao State University- External Studies Unit (WMSU-ESU), Zamboanga del Sur National High School, Pagadian City to promote the school and to encourage poor but deserving students to take up the OCCto become young and aspiring officers like them in the future.

Batayola mentionedthat the 1^st Cavalry Squadron has 2 officers who are graduates  of OCC.

“I am referring to Capt. Donny Val Gamao, intelligence officer and Capt. Jonathan Escandor, operations officer who are performing their job competently and efficiently,” Batayola proudly said.

He said graduates of this school are commissioned as Second Lieutenants and Ensigns in the AFP Regular and Reserve Forces by the President of the Philippines who is also the Commander-In-Chief of the AFP.

DSWD hosts Pantawid Pamilya National Family Day 2015

By Alma L. Tingcang

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – In observance of the Family Week, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) hosted the Pantawid Pamilya Family Day 2015 with the theme, “Tuloy and Pagbabago” last Oct. 4 at the Universidad de Zamboanga gymnasium here.

DSWD-9 Regional Director Zenaida L. Arevalo said it was a venue to gather Pantawid families in a one day festive activity full of fun and surprises, and sharing of “pagbabago” stories in the presence of civil society organizations, national government agencies and media partners.

These were success stories from beneficiaries on how the program has changed and improved their lives.

In his message, Governor Wilter Yap Palma said, “Be true to yourselves, your colleagues, friends and to the community as a whole. Being true to your own families is the foundation of an honest society.”

“Ug dili lig-on ang pamilya, dili lig-on ang komunidad. Mao sab ang nasod, Kinahanglan magsugod gyud ang maayong pundasyon sa pamilya (If the family is not strong, so is the community and the country. Strong foundation should start within the family),” Mayor Eldwin Alibutdan quoted as saying.

Different products were on display made by livelihood associations in the province such as: banana chips, crispy banana crackers, bigas-mongo curls, lemon juice herbal wine, moringa aroma, boneless danggit, and other products.

To make the activity more memorable, medical consultation, haircut, manicure and pedicure services were offered free to all participants who willingly obliged to be pampered on this remarkable Family Day celebration.

Meanwhile, Ms. Flordeliza Y. Alar-Atuy, Pantawid Pamilya Provincial Link proudly reported that Sibugay’s very own Huwarang Pamilya from Titay town, Mr. & Mrs. Silvano A. Yamaro was among the five regional winners of the search. 

World Teachers’ Day 2015 observed in Ipil town

By Rhea Grace A. La Plana

IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay – In keeping with the “World Teachers’ Day” celebration last Oct. 5, the Supreme Pupils’ Government (SPG) of Domondan Elementary School in Barangay Domondan here led the schoolchildren in paying tribute to their mentors who are responsible for “molding their minds and leading them to the right path of learning.”

Speaking on behalf of the pupils, SPG President Ivy Grace B. Tiking expressed her gratitude to the school principal, Dr. Waymor F. Ancheta, and his teachers for their efforts at imparting to them “valuable lessons each day.”

For his part, Doctor Ancheta also thanked all the pupils from Kinder I to Grade VI for recognizing their teachers who inculcate in them  “appropriate knowledge, proper values and right ethics.”

The pupils sang, danced,serenaded and gave flowers to their teachers. Some even handed letters expressing their appreciation and love for their teachers, evoking tears of joy among them.

In response, the teachers rendered a dance number to the delight of the schoolchildren.

Mr. Janito C. Langcamon, Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) president,and other school personnel also handed some tokens and flowers to the school principal.

DTI-Zambo. Sur to hold search for best infomercial

By Franklin P. Gumapon

PAGADIAN CITY – As part of the National Consumer Welfare Month celebration, the Department of Trade and Industry-Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office (DTI-ZDSPO) is going to hold a search for the best infomercial to be participated in by grade 9 and 10 students of public and private secondary schools in Pagadian City come Oct. 22 and 23.

The infomercial scriptwriting and recording will be held at DTI conference room on Oct. 22 at 9 a.m. and the judging will be held the following day at the same venue and time.

Eight teams from public and private secondary schools in the city are expected to join the said competition.

The invited  schools are Zamboanga del Sur National High School (ZSNHS), Pagadian City Science High School (PSHS), Pagadian City Comprehensive High School (PCHS), Zamboanga del Sur Schools of Arts Trades (ZSSAT), Holy Child Academy, Pagadian Junior College (PJC), Southern Mindanao Colleges (SMC) and Saint Columban College (SCC).

Each school shall field one team composed of three members for the English infomercial scriptwriting. These students should not be participants to the poster making contest, another competition lined-up for the consumer month celebration.

The contestants will be given one hour to prepare an audio script for a 1-3 minuter audio plug depicting this year’s theme, “Consumer Protection in the ASEAN Economic Community.”

Provincial Director Maria Socorro Malate-Atay of DTI-Zamboanga del Sur said the search for the best infomercial was designed to promote public awareness on the theme and, at the same time, to “create promotional materials on consumerism.”

The National Consumer Welfare Month is observed every October each year. 

Bongao town installs town-wide CCTVs to enhance security

By Felipo David G. Malcampo

BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi – The municipal government here is the first in the Autonomous Region on Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to have its own closed-circuit television (CCTV), a project, which aims to create a safer and more investor-friendly municipality in the southernmost part of the country.

According to Mayor Jasper Que, the town has now 52 operational CCTVs, with a total of 100 cameras to be installed in the municipality’s strategic areas with a total cost of P4.5-million.

The CCTVs are a realization of the 2014 municipal ordinance, which aims to make Bongao a safer place so that more investors will come in.

“We are aiming to be the trade capital of the south,” Que said, highlighting that security is very important to ensure economic development.

The mayor, however, admitted that there have been crimes, which remain unsolved in spite of the presence of eyewitnesses.

“They do not want to talk,” Que shared, explaining that the residents would rather choose to remain silent than risk their lives as witnesses.

The CCTV project is seen to address this problem, and will aid the local police in apprehending suspects, and preventing crime proactively. 

President Aquino confirms expansion of Tawi-Tawi airport

By Dominic I. Sanchez

BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi – President Benigno S. Aquino III on Saturday personally confirmed to the residents of Tawi-Tawi that the Sanga-Sanga airport is due to be expanded and developed, as funds for this project have already been appropriated.

“We will need to buy land for the airport expansion and runway widening,” President Aquino said, adding that the cost would be P826-million.

The President shared that the P248-million initial amount is already with the 2015 budget, while the remaining P578-million has already been appropriated for next year’s budget.

He called on the local officials to talk with the landowners to ensure that they will not jack up the prices of the land.

As shared by a local tourism council member to the President, domestic tourists in the city in previous years have been recorded to be only at about 200 in a year. “However, in recent times, they have noted 60,000 tourist arrivals in a year,” President Aquino said.

The President joked that when the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) would be passed, “maybe your problem will be having far more tourists that you can manage.”

“Gusto nating paunlarin ang Sanga-Sanga Airport (we want to develop the Sanga-Sanga Airport),” President Aquino said adding, “upang mapadali ang transportasyon at mapalago ang turismo (so transportation will be faster and there will be more influx of tourists).”

Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Abaya, who accompanied the President in Tawi-Tawi shared that they are also exploring the opening of Cebu-Tawi-Tawi flights via Cebu Pacific.

Tawi-Tawi is the southernmost province in the country, and is blessed with white sand beaches, exotic marine life and fine delicacies. Besides that, it is a leading producer of cassava, among other farm and marine products, and through the infrastructure projects, delivery of these goods will be shortened exponentially to the end-users and consumers. Better accessibility is also seen by the local and national government to boost tourism.

The Aquino administration has poured in millions of pesos for infrastructure projects in the province, including roads and bridges that now link farms in mainland Panglima Sugala to the provincial commercial center in Bongao.